Backyard burning of trash in Sri Lanka is a huge problem, and the negative repercussions it has on the environment and the people do not need an explanation. People are burning trash today in massive amounts because there are no legal ramifications for doing so, and also, it's the easiest way to dispose of waste. What they are not thinking about is how they are contributing to large scale problems such as air pollution, climate change, and global warming. 

The average temperatures in Sri Lanka are accelerating at an alarming pace. It means that we are experiencing the consequences of our actions first hand and continuing to burn trash is only going to worsen the problem. I believe that illegalizing the backyard burning of trash will force people to look for alternative ways of disposing of it that are healthier for everybody and earth. 

I don't think it is too late for us Sri Lankans to make a progressive change that will create not just a better country but a better world.  

• Stop Backyard Burning!
• Open Burning of Trash: A Hidden Toxin
• Trash burning worldwide significantly worsens air pollution
• The Practice of Burning Trash in Developing Countries
• Burning Trash Bad for Humans and Global Warming
• Sri Lanka's Waste Problem Is Massive

Possible alternatives for burning trash

• Reduce the amount of waste generated by separating your trash into recyclables, compost, and other trash
• Implement and promote backyard composting
• Educate people on good recycling practices
• Increase the frequency of garbage and recycling collection 
• Build new and improve exciting trash disposal infrastructure, including increasing the number of controlled incinerators

SriLanka can be the country to set standards for the rest of South Asia on responsible waste management practices.